Mkaramo clay figure. Cylindrical figure with a slight restriction between the body and spherical head. The figure has no legs, and has a flat, circular base that extends slightly to the rear. Has two prominent, triangular projections representing breasts or arms, and a slight projection near the base, potentially representing the navel. Domed projection on the face with a deep incision resembling an open mouth. [IL [OPS Move] 27/4/2017]

Collection type: Object
Description: Mkaramo clay figure. Cylindrical figure with a slight restriction between the body and spherical head. The figure has no legs, and has a flat, circular base that extends slightly to the rear. Has two prominent, triangular projections representing breasts or arms, and a slight projection near the base, potentially representing the navel. Domed projection on the face with a deep incision resembling an open mouth. [IL [OPS Move] 27/4/2017]
Long description: Mkaramo figure used to teach morals to girls in puberty rituals. [IL [OPS Move] 27/4/2017]
Geographical reference: Tanzania, United Republic of
Africa > Eastern Africa > Tanzania, United Republic of; Pangani
Cultural groups: Zigula
Person: Field collector Ralph Esmond Selby Tanner; PRM source Ralph Esmond Selby Tanner
Date / Period: Date made: Before 1958
Date collected: From 1951-1958
Acquisition information: Donated: 1958
Materials and processes: Material Clay, Process Handbuilt
Dimensions: Height: max 55 mm, Depth: max 24 mm, Width: max 31 mm
Object numbers: Accession number: 1958.11.2.123 Other numbers: 123 226
Research and responses: Figurines from Tanganyika reads : ... [See 1958.11.2.1 for complete entry] ... [Retrospective number:] 226 [female symbol]123. Mama Kasema. Girl should not change round any of the instructions given by her kungwi.